Tuesday, September 20, 2011

A Wi-Fi Tablet Examined: The Dell Streak 7

By Robert Callahan


The first iPad had a lot of skeptics; people thought that their laptops covered the same bases better. However, the actual intent of the iPad started to become clearer. As the industry caught on and Apple's accountants eagerly started rubbing their hands with glee, the other leading computer and cell phone companies sat up and took notice. Tablets started appearing wherever you look. And Dell's shareowners will be distressed if they didn't try and corner a piece of the market. The product Dell is putting its hopes on is a tablet called Streak 7 Wi-Fi Tablet. Whether this device makes the grade and is worth purchasing is what we are going to try to resolve in this article.

It's a good device for movies with a similar system to ipad movies downloads. Alas, the most evident minus for this product is the company itself -- Dell. Quality and dependability are not hallmarks of this company's products. Dell's customer service record is likewise on sort of uneven ground. Based on customer feedback, it seems that the moment your warranty lapses, you are going to be billed for calling customer support. You'll discover that perhaps the upfront cost of this device is more affordable than most, you have got to factor in the long-term cost of the company you're dealing with.

This tablet from Dell has the Android OS (this version is affectionately named Froyo), which means that it should allow you to multitask between a few different applications pretty easily. The system's notification service keeps you abreast even if all programs aren't open and running, and at the same time, you can maintain your GPS information and listen to MP3s. It provides user-friendly access to your Gmail and other e-mail applications and accounts, so you don't have to be worried about whether someone can reach you when you have your tablet with you.

Video chat was not present in the original iPad offering, and it's fantastic that it is with this Dell tablet. Video chat is incorporated with the Dell Streak 7 tablet through Qik software and a camera panel that faces front. The only catch is that the only ones you can chat with are those who own a Dell Streak tablet or a compatible device. What this means is that the video chat feature is not all-encompassing in its application. Another great thing is that the Streak 7 tablet comes built in with Blockbuster's On Demand service. Admittedly, though, Blockbuster's recent difficulties make us think twice about its value as a recommendation.

Until now, there aren't a lot of reviews about this particular product though a few people are questioning what the purpose of this product might actually be. The Dell Streak 7 tablet's practical use is limited by its not being universal and its consequent inability to communicate with incompatible devices. However, if you believe you're missing out and you wish to determine whether tablets are actually the thing for you, this is an affordable way for you to figure it out. Before you commit your money to Dell, though, be careful and make sure that you understand what you're investing in.




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